Life is not always easy, and there undoubtedly will be stressful times in one’s life, times when nervousness or anxiety creeps in, whether it is before a job interview, taking a test, or the purchase of a new home. But for many Americans, including some living in and near Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and the surrounding area, there are instances where these feelings of anxiety are more than just occasional feelings. Many of these people may be victims of an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety disorders can have a serious effect on a person’s day to day living, including the ability to do work. Anxiety disorders can take a few different forms. They may include panic disorders, which often occurs at random, causing several symptoms including chest pain, palpitations and feelings of a heart attack. Another form are social anxiety disorders, or social phobias. These generally occur during social interactions, when a victim may feel as if he or she is being judged. Victims may worry excessively, feel self-conscious and embarrassed.
It is still not known what exactly causes such mental disorders, but it is believed that chemical imbalances in the brain, as well as emotional stress both play a role. It is believed that some of these may also be genetic, likely due to faulty circuits or miswirings in the brain.
Anyone living with a mental disability such as anxiety or panic attacks that prevents them from maintaining gainful employment may be entitled to Social Security Disability benefits for mental conditions. In order to qualify, you must first prove that the condition is serious enough that you are unable to work, and that the condition is expected to last at least a year or end in death.
Source: WebMD, “What Are Anxiety Disorders?” accessed on July 24, 2017